Merkley Statement on the Passing of Peter Courtney

Portland, OR - Oregon's U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley released the following statement on the passing of former Oregon Senate President Peter Courtney:

"I join the many Oregonians who are grieving this loss of Peter Courtney-a true force of nature whose larger-than-life personality was only matched by his work ethic.

"Throughout his remarkable, record-setting over 40-year service to our state, Peter was unwavering in his passion for supporting animal rights, mental health services, education, veterans, and many more issues central to the success of working families.

"When I was Oregon House Speaker, I had a front row seat to seeing Peter in action. We worked closely together to pass several major bills in the state legislature that have become central to Oregon. This includes creating the state's first-ever rainy day fund to support schools, strengthening the Oregon Bottle Bill, and championing LGBTQ+ rights and protections.

"All those of us who worked with Peter are better legislators and better people for having done so, regardless of party. He was scrappy, he was honest, and his love for Oregon and its people shown through everything he did. This is the lasting legacy Peter leaves behind in Oregon politics and in the lives of everyday Oregon families that will carry on for generations.

"My heart is with Peter's wife Margie and all his family and loved ones during this difficult time."

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